U.S. patent number 9,952,483 [Application Number 15/337,076] was granted by the patent office on 2018-04-24 for customizable elastic collar grip for enhanced manual manipulation of camera lenses.
This patent grant is currently assigned to BAND.IT.Co.. The grantee listed for this patent is BAND.IT. Co., Thomas E. Bender. Invention is credited to Domenic Aluise, Jacob Barrineau, Thomas E. Bender, Christopher M. Cooper, Elezar Tonev.
United States Patent |
9,952,483 |
Tonev , et al. |
April 24, 2018 |
Customizable elastic collar grip for enhanced manual manipulation
of camera lenses
Abstract
Advantageous collar grips are provided to secure a grip on a
camera lens ring, such as the focusing, zooming, or aperture
control rings. A collar grip of a pliable and stretchable material
can be placed around the lens ring to allow improved manipulation
and thereby more accurate manipulation of the lens. Extended
surface features on the collar grip can secure it to the lens ring
and ensure an accurate grasp. The collar grip also provides
increased diameter to the focusing ring, which can further aid in
more accurate focusing ability.
Inventors: |
Tonev; Elezar (Bradenton,
FL), Cooper; Christopher M. (Bradenton, FL), Aluise;
Domenic (Bradenton, FL), Barrineau; Jacob (Lakewood
Ranch, FL), Bender; Thomas E. (Bradenton, FL) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BAND.IT. Co.
Bender; Thomas E. |
Bradenton
Bradenton |
FL
FL |
US
US |
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|
Assignee: |
BAND.IT.Co. (Bradenton,
FL)
|
Family
ID: |
58637457 |
Appl.
No.: |
15/337,076 |
Filed: |
October 28, 2016 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20170123299 A1 |
May 4, 2017 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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62247735 |
Oct 28, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G03B
17/563 (20130101); G03B 3/00 (20130101); G03B
5/00 (20130101); G03B 2205/0046 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
G03B
11/00 (20060101); G03B 3/00 (20060101); G03B
5/00 (20060101); G03B 17/56 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;396/544,529
;359/701,706,822,823,825,830 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Fuller; Rodney
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Saliwanchik, Lloyd &
Eisenschenk
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 62/247,735, filed Oct. 28, 2015, which is incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A collar grip adapted to be placed on a lens ring on a camera
lens barrel, the collar grip comprising: a stretchable tubular
sleeve having a first edge and a second edge that define a height
of the collar grip therebetween; an exterior surface between the
first edge and the second edge, the exterior surface having a
plurality of exterior extended surface features, and at least one
channel provided between adjacent exterior extended surface
features; an interior surface between the first edge and the second
edge and opposite to the exterior surface, having a plurality of
interior extended surface features and at least one channel
provided between adjacent interior extended surface features; and
one or more horizontal tracks on the exterior surface, wherein each
horizontal track has a width and circumscribes the exterior surface
of the tubular sleeve, and wherein the collar grip has a durometer
in a range of 5 to 60.
2. The collar grip according to claim 1, wherein the extended
surface features on the interior surface extend between the first
edge to the second edge and are transverse to at least one of the
first edge and the second edge.
3. The collar grip according to claim 1, wherein the extended
surface features on the interior surface extend between the first
edge to the second edge and are slanted relative to the first edge
and the second edge.
4. The collar grip according to claim 1, wherein the collar grip is
made of a silicone polymer material.
5. The collar grip according to claim 4, wherein the silicone
polymer is platinum-catalyzed.
6. The collar grip according to claim 1, wherein the exterior
extended surface features are cogs.
7. The collar grip according to claim 6, wherein the interior
extended surface features are ribs.
8. The collar grip according to claim 6, comprising at least two
horizontal tracks having the same width.
9. The collar grip according to claim 1, wherein each exterior
extended surface feature has a face that is adjacent to at least
one of the first edge and the second edge.
10. The collar grip according to claim 9, wherein at least a
portion of the face has a draft that causes it to tilt away from
the adjacent edge.
11. A collar grip adapted to be placed on a lens ring on a camera
lens barrel, the collar grip comprising: a stretchable tubular
sleeve having a first edge and a second edge that define a height
of the collar grip therebetween; an exterior surface between the
first edge and the second edge, the exterior surface having a
plurality of exterior extended surface features, and at least one
channel provided between adjacent exterior extended surface
features; an interior surface between the first edge and the second
edge and opposite to the exterior surface, having a plurality of
interior extended surface features and at least one channel
provided between adjacent interior extended surface features; and
one or more horizontal tracks on the exterior surface, wherein each
horizontal track has a width and circumscribes the exterior surface
of the tubular sleeve, wherein the extended surface features on the
interior surface extend between the first edge to the second edge
and are slanted relative to the first edge and the second edge, and
wherein the extended surface features are slanted at an angle
between approximately 40.degree. and approximately 60.degree.
relative to an edge.
12. The collar grip according to claim 11, wherein the extended
surface features are slanted at an angle between approximately
45.degree. and 55.degree..
13. A collar grip adapted to be placed on a lens ring on a camera
lens barrel, the collar grip comprising: a stretchable tubular
sleeve having a first edge and a second edge that define a height
of the collar grip therebetween; an exterior surface between the
first edge and the second edge, the exterior surface having a
plurality of exterior extended surface features, and at least one
channel provided between adjacent exterior extended surface
features; an interior surface between the first edge and the second
edge and opposite to the exterior surface, having a plurality of
interior extended surface features and at least one channel
provided between adjacent interior extended surface features; and
one or more horizontal tracks on the exterior surface, wherein each
horizontal track has a width and circumscribes the exterior surface
of the tubular sleeve, wherein the collar grip is made of a
silicone polymer material, and wherein the silicone polymer is
platinum-based.
14. A collar grip adapted to be placed on a lens ring on a camera
lens barrel, the collar grip comprising: a stretchable tubular
sleeve having a first edge and a second edge that define a height
of the collar grip therebetween; an exterior surface between the
first edge and the second edge, the exterior surface having a
plurality of exterior extended surface features, and at least one
channel provided between adjacent exterior extended surface
features; an interior surface between the first edge and the second
edge and opposite to the exterior surface, having a plurality of
interior extended surface features and at least one channel
provided between adjacent interior extended surface features; and
one or more horizontal tracks on the exterior surface, wherein each
horizontal track has a width and circumscribes the exterior surface
of the tubular sleeve, wherein the exterior extended surface
features are cogs, and wherein the one or more horizontal tracks
comprises at least two horizontal tracks having different
widths.
15. A collar grip adapted to be placed on a lens ring on a camera
lens barrel, the collar grip comprising: a stretchable tubular
sleeve having a first edge and a second edge that define a height
of the collar grip therebetween; an exterior surface between the
first edge and the second edge, the exterior surface having a
plurality of exterior extended surface features, and at least one
channel provided between adjacent exterior extended surface
features; an interior surface between the first edge and the second
edge and opposite to the exterior surface, having a plurality of
interior extended surface features and at least one channel
provided between adjacent interior extended surface features; and
one or more horizontal tracks on the exterior surface, wherein each
horizontal track has a width and circumscribes the exterior surface
of the tubular sleeve, wherein the exterior extended surface
features are cogs, and wherein the one or more horizontal tracks
comprises three horizontal tracks spaced apart on the exterior
surface, including a first horizontal track that is centered on the
exterior surface, and wherein at least two of the horizontal tracks
have different widths from each other.
16. The collar grip according to claim 15, wherein the at least
three horizontal tracks further include: a second horizontal track
on one side of the first horizontal track; and a third horizontal
track on the other side of the first horizontal track, wherein the
width of the second horizontal track is narrower than that of the
first horizontal track, and wherein the width of the third
horizontal track is narrower than that of the first horizontal
track.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Photography is a growing art form and has become more common with
the advent of "point and click" cameras that automatically zoom and
focus an image. Nonetheless, many photographers still prefer to use
cameras with manually adjustable lenses because of the greater
freedom afforded in capturing an image. Cameras with manual lenses
allow the user to control such settings as the zoom and/or the
focus of a lens. These types of cameras have one or more rings on
the outside of the lens barrel that can be grasped and rotated to
control the zoom, focus, or aperture settings of the camera. The
ability to manipulate the focusing, zoom, or aperture settings
using the rings on the lens barrel affects the quality of the
picture. Some lens rings are narrow or have a smooth finish, which
can make them difficult to rotate, and some lens rings can have
hatching or other external features to assist in rotating. They are
still often hard surfaces, with minimal traction. Lens ring collars
can be attached to provide more control, but these tend to be rigid
and bulky, can add weight to the camera, and take significant time
to install. Lens ring collars are also usually not intended to
improve actual grasping on the camera lens ring, and this
necessitates a photographer learning and using an alternative
technique for using the camera.
BRIEF SUMMARY
The subject invention successfully addresses the disadvantages
associated with the previously known camera lens ring collars and
their method of use, and provides certain attributes and
advantages, which have not been realized by known devices. In
particular, the subject invention provides novel embodiments of a
collar grip that can be placed around a camera lens, particularly a
focusing or zoom ring, to improve a user's grasp of the lens ring.
A collar grip of an embodiment of the subject invention can also
increase the outside diameter of the focusing ring, which can
provide more precision and improve focusing ability.
Advantageously, embodiments of the subject invention provide these
improvements while still allowing a photographer to operate the
focusing ring in the usual fashion and not change the methods by
which they are accustomed to manipulating the camera.
A collar grip can be, in general, a ring, band, sleeve, tube, or
similar shaped device of an elastic or other shape-memory material,
so that it can be stretched to fit over the lens barrel and placed,
for example, on the focusing or zoom ring of the lens. When
released, a collar grip of an embodiment of the subject invention
will retract, preferably instantaneously (or relatively
instantaneously), to resume its original shape and conform to the
outside configuration of the lens ring.
The lens ring on a lens barrel can be scored or hatched or have
ribs, nibs, or other ergonomic structures to aid in grasping. This
scoring or hatching is usually made directly in the material of the
focusing ring, which is usually metal or plastic, with minimal
pliability, which necessitates firmly grasping the focusing ring to
achieve stiction or friction between the fingers and the lens ring.
When making minute adjustments, which can require a light touch,
this scoring or hatching usually provides minimal assistance.
In one embodiment, a collar grip of the subject invention has
extended surface features, such as cogs or other protrusions on the
exterior surface, against which the fingers of a user can make
contact. In a further embodiment, the material of a collar grip is
pliable or cushiony, so that it can conform to the user's
grasp.
In a further embodiment, a collar grip of the subject invention
also has extended surface features, such as ribs or other
protrusions, on the interior surface that make contact with the
lens barrel or focusing ring. The pliability of the material can
beneficially allow the extended surface features to conform to the
exterior of the focusing ring and can produce cohesion or stiction
with the focusing ring or other part of the camera lens, creating a
non-permanent bond that allows the collar grip to stay in place
during use.
The ability to accurately focus and/or zoom a lens is related to
the amount of control and precision that a user has in rotating the
focusing ring. Collar grips of embodiments of the subject invention
can have a material thickness that, when placed around a lens ring,
effectively increases the diameter of the ring. This increased
diameter, provided by the thickness of the collar grip, increases
the radius between the user's fingers and the center of the camera
lens, causing a larger amount of movement to be required to
generate the same motion in the lens. This increased distance can
provide more precise control over the focus and zoom of the camera
lens, as the same adjustment in terms of the distance rotated
(i.e., arc-distance) yields a smaller change in terms of degrees of
rotation as compared to the current stock zoom and focus manual
adjustment rings. A greater error factor is therefore provided by
increasing the distance required to make minute adjustments in
focusing and zooming, allowing incremental changes to be made with
larger movements.
Camera lenses are available in a large variety of focal lengths.
The focal length can determine the maximum and minimum longitudinal
lengths of the lens, which are the distances from where the lens
connects to a camera body to the maximum and minimum distances,
respectively, from the camera body that the lens can extend. Camera
lenses typically have at least one lens ring that is used to adjust
both the focus and/or zoom of a lens. Shorter focal length lenses
can have narrower lens rings because they may be shorter than a
lens with a longer focal length. Collar grips of embodiments of the
subject invention can be customizable to fit a particular width of
lens ring to accommodate different focal length lenses. In one
embodiment, the height of a collar grip, which is the distance
between the edges of the collar grip, can be changed, adjusted, or
altered by removing or cutting away material from an edge of the
collar grip. A collar grip can also have guides or tracks around
the periphery that can assist in detecting where the fingers are
located on the camera lens. If the collar grip is too large for a
particular lens, the tracks can be used as guides for removing the
correct amount of material to provide the desired collar grip
height.
Preferably, a collar grip can be made of one or more materials that
allow the collar grip to be stretched sufficiently to go over or
around the camera barrel and be placed where desired. When
released, the collar grip can be in the desired location on the
lens with minimal or no further adjustment. Thus, the collar grip
does not have to be or can be minimally adjusted by rolling,
pushing, or pulling across the outside of the lens barrel in order
to place it where intended. This can be helpful if there are other
features or structures on the lens that would inhibit such method
of placement. The pliability of the material can, however, allow
this as a possible method of placement, if stretching the collar
grip diameter to go around and over the lens is not desired or
feasible.
A further advantage of collar grips of embodiments of the subject
invention is the added safety and protection that can be provided.
A collar grip can inhibit the degradation of the camera lens, as it
can protect the components that undergo motion (e.g., the focus and
zoom rings) from particles like sand and dust that can cause wear.
Embodiments of the subject invention can also inhibit liquids and
oil from corroding the lens, which is inherently prone to rapid
decay through regular use, exposure to oils on the hands and body,
and by exposure to natural elements.
Materials that can be utilized for collar grips of embodiments of
the subject invention can inhibit degradation by UV radiation, as
the materials, such as different polymers, can be made UV
resistant. This can further lengthen the effective life of the
camera lens and the collar grip. The materials used can also be
more effective at wicking moisture than the material of the lens
ring, allowing a user to more effectively control the zoom and/or
focus lenses under humid conditions. The materials used can also be
more pliable than the material of the lens barrel, lens rings, or
collar rings known in the art, and this can result in an increase
in grasp-ability. The pliability of the material can also allow the
lens to be braced or abutted against objects and provide sufficient
buffering or cushioning to inhibit the camera shutter from moving
the camera. This can prevent blurry shots from occurring when the
camera lens is braced against objects during operation due to the
shock absorption provided by embodiments of the subject invention.
Furthermore, a collar grip does not have to be utilized only on a
lens ring. The collar grip embodiments of the subject invention can
be used on other areas of a lens barrel to provide the same
protection and attributes as described above.
Collar grips of embodiments of the subject invention provide
advantages and improvements that are not realized with current lens
barrels or camera lens rings. They can be easy to install and do
not interfere with, and can enhance, operation of the camera and
focusing or zooming ability. They allow users to operate the camera
lens rings normally and do not require changing the method of
operation or use of a lens ring. In many embodiments, the materials
utilized for a collar grip can impart customizable sizes, increased
protection, and easy placement on a lens barrel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The drawings presented herein may or may not be drawn to scale and
any reference to dimensions in the drawings or the following
description is specific to the embodiments disclosed. Any
variations of these dimensions that will allow embodiments of the
subject invention to function for its intended purpose are
considered to be within the scope of the subject invention. Thus,
understanding that these drawings depict only embodiments of the
invention and are not to be considered as limiting in scope, the
invention will be described and explained with additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying
drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front edge plan view of an embodiment of the subject
invention.
FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the subject
invention.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view from the front edge of an embodiment
of the subject invention.
FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the subject
invention.
FIG. 5 is a perspective side elevation view of an embodiment of the
subject invention.
FIG. 6 is a front edge plan view of an embodiment of the subject
invention.
FIG. 7 is a front edge plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6
in a stretched configuration.
FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the subject
invention.
FIG. 9 is a front edge plan view of an embodiment of the subject
invention.
FIG. 10 is a front edge plan view of an alternative embodiment of
the subject invention.
FIG. 11 is a front side perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of the subject invention.
FIG. 12 is a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of
the subject invention.
FIG. 13 is a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of
the subject invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The subject invention pertains to devices and methods for use in
improving manipulation of a camera lens and, thus, a user's
focusing ability thereof. Embodiments of the subject invention
provide collar grips, or similar devices, which can be placed
around a lens barrel (e.g., around a focusing ring on a lens
barrel), without inhibiting or altering the operation of the
lens.
Embodiments of the subject invention are useful in the field of
lens optics, in particular, focusing and zoom lenses used on
cameras, including, but not limited to cameras used for still
photography, video, or television. A person with skill in the art
will be able to recognize numerous other uses that would be
applicable to the devices and methods of embodiments of the subject
invention. Thus, while many of the terms herein relate to a use for
lenses used on cameras, other modifications apparent to a person
with skill in the art and having benefit of the subject disclosure
are contemplated to be within the scope of the present
invention.
As used herein, the term "camera" refers to any device capable of
obtaining an image utilizing one or more lenses. This includes, but
is not limited to, cameras for taking still images, video cameras,
television cameras, digital cameras, manually operated cameras,
hand-held or stand-alone cameras, and the like. It should be
understood that the embodiments described herein can be used on a
camera lens, which is not necessarily attached to a camera.
The terms "lens", "lens barrel," or "camera lens" as used herein
can include lenses used for focusing, lenses used for zooming,
lenses used to control aperture settings, lenses for special
effects, interchangeable lenses, stock lenses, and other types of
lenses, or combinations thereof. These terms, as used herein, can
include standard or "stock" zoom and focus manual adjustment
lenses, collars, particularly the outer casing thereof, having all
of the controls for the lens. While embodiments of the subject
invention are useful for improving the usability of standard or
stock zoom and focus manual adjustment collars that come
pre-installed on cameras, they are not precluded from use on other
types of lenses or lens barrels. Embodiments of the subject
invention are intended to be useful on any type of camera lens or
lens barrel in which manual adjustment is or can be employed.
The term "stock collar" and "lens ring" are used interchangeably
herein and for literary convenience. These terms are used to refer
to a stock or standard focusing, zooming, and aperture rings on a
lens. It can also refer to other rings on a lens barrel used for
other purposes
As used herein, and unless otherwise specifically stated, the terms
"operable communication," "operable connection," "operably
connected," "cooperatively engaged" and grammatical variations
thereof mean that the particular elements are connected in such a
way that they cooperate to achieve their intended function or
functions. The "connection" or "engagement" may be direct, or
indirect, physical or remote.
Reference is made throughout the application to the "interior
surface" and "exterior surface" of the embodiments of the subject
invention. As used herein, the interior surface is the surface that
contacts or that makes operable connection with the lens barrel.
Also as used herein, the exterior surface is the surface that, when
installed, is located furthest (e.g., in a radial direction) from
the lens barrel and with which a user makes operable connection to
control the operation of the lens barrel, such as rotating the lens
barrel or sliding the lens barrel.
Reference will be made to the attached figures on which the same
reference numerals are used throughout to indicate the same or
similar components. With reference to the attached figures, which
show certain embodiments of the subject invention, it can be seen
that embodiments of the subject invention can include a collar grip
10 configured as a sleeve, band, tube, or ring of continuous,
uninterrupted material. The collar grip 10 can have two edges,
referred to as the first edge 12 and the second edge 14, which are
on the outside of the front and back of the collar grip. There can
also be an exterior surface 2 that can have extended surface
features 20 thereon. There can also be an interior surface 5 that
can have extended surface features 20 thereon. As will be discussed
in detail, the extended surface features, such as, for example,
cogs and ribs, can be generally offset from each other on each
surface, so that when viewed from one edge, the extended surface
features on one surface appear to be between the extended surface
features on the other surface, or at least appear not be aligned
with one above the other. Alternatively, the extended surface
features can be generally aligned with each other on each
surface.
Advantageously, a collar grip 10 can be manufactured from one or
more materials that allow for easy and accurate customization of
the collar grip to fit specific lens sizes. In some embodiments,
one or more horizontal tracks 80, which can both improve a user's
grasp on the collar grip and provide a guide when customizing the
collar grip, can be included. The extended surface features can
also be formed with a draft or at an angle so as to increase
contact and grasp-ability of the collar grip. Each of these
above-mentioned general components can have one or more
sub-components, which will be discussed in detail below.
In many embodiments of the subject invention, a pliable,
customizable collar grip 10 is provided that can improve the
ability to rotate or otherwise manipulate a camera lens' stock zoom
and focus manual adjustment focusing rings. The material that can
be utilized for the collar grip can be elastic or have shape-memory
characteristics that allow a collar grip to be pulled, stretched,
or otherwise temporarily deformed from the original shape and
resume the original shape when released. In one embodiment, the
diameter of the interior surface of the collar grip is smaller than
a stock collar, until force is applied to temporarily deform the
collar grip. While stretched or deformed, a collar grip can be slid
over a lens barrel and placed over the stock collar for a zoom
and/or focus manual adjustment ring of the camera lens. When
released around a stock collar on a lens barrel, the collar grip
can conform to the shape of stock collar as it returns to the
natural or original form. In one embodiment, the material of the
collar grip creates a seamless adhesion around the stock collar. In
many embodiments, the material of a collar grip will produce
cohesion or stiction between the stock collar and the collar grip,
creating a strong non-permanent bond between the two that allows
the collar grip to stay in place on the stock collar.
In one embodiment, the material utilized for a collar grip 10 is an
elastomer of natural or synthetic polymer having elastic
properties. In a further embodiment, the material of the collar
grip is silicone. In a specific embodiment, the material of a
collar grip is a Platinum 25 silicone, such as, for example,
PlatSil.RTM. or Rebound.RTM.. This material can be platinum-based
or be platinum-cured in an injection molding process. The material
can also be formed in a heat-cured injection molding process. The
final product can have a durometer of from 5 to 60 on one of the
following scales: Shore A, Shore B, Shore C, Shore D, Shore DO,
Shore O, Shore OO, or Shore M. For example, the final product can
have a durometer of 10 to 20 or approximately 10 to 20 on a Shore A
hardness scale. This can provide optimum grasp-ability and
sufficient elasticity. A person with skill in the art will
understand and be aware of other materials that can be used and the
embodiments of a collar grip are not limited to only those
mentioned above. Numerous elastomer materials are available and
provide the advantage of increased drop or impact protection for a
lens. The pliability of polymer materials, particularly silicone
polymers, provide a reliable cohesion to create a no-slip bond
between a collar grip and a stock collar or lens ring, allowing
precise control of focus and zoom of a lens at all times.
Related art focus and zoom ring collars can be bulky and heavy,
adding significant weight to a camera. They can also require a user
to change the method by which the lens ring is rotated. In some
situations, the addition of a handle or other protrusion for
grasping and rotating a lens ring is desirable or necessary. In
other situations, being able to more accurately and reliably grasp
and rotate a lens ring in the normal fashion can be preferable.
Collar grips of embodiments of the subject invention provide the
advantage of being able to improve a user's grasp or grip on a
stock collar and increase precision in focusing, without changing
the mode of operation. The materials that can be utilized for
collar grips of embodiments of the subject invention also provide
the advantage of being lightweight, thus adding minimal weight to
the camera, compared to other known devices.
In one embodiment, a collar grip has a weight in a range of from 2
ounces (oz) to 5 oz. In a further embodiment, a collar grip has a
weight in a range of from 2.2 oz to 3 oz. In a particular
embodiment, a collar grip has a weight of 2.5 oz or approximately
2.5 oz.
Elastomer materials can provide other benefits, such as their
ability to inhibit or neutralize static charge in the lens and the
camera. Elastomers can also be colored or tinted to increase
visibility or to impart other desirable visual characteristics.
They can also be made resistant to various levels of UV
radiation.
Collar grips 10 of embodiments of the subject invention can inhibit
degradation of the camera lens, as they can protect the components
that undergo motion (focusing and zoom rings) from particles like
sand and dust. They can also inhibit liquids or body oils from
corroding the stock collar and camera lens, which are known to be
prone to degradation through regular use and exposure to natural
elements. A collar grip 10 can be more effective at wicking away
moisture than the materials typically utilized for a stock collar
on a lens barrel. This allows the user to more effectively control
the zoom and focus of their camera under humid conditions. Further,
when formed of the elastomer materials, a collar grip can allow the
camera lens to be braced against other objects, with the collar
grip 10 acting as the contact point. This can provide sufficient
friction and shock absorption to inhibit the camera shutter from
moving the camera.
A collar grip 10 can be fitted to a stock collar by stretching the
collar grip at least partially out of shape or to, at least
temporarily, have a larger interior surface diameter 6, as depicted
in FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the material utilized for a collar
grip permits the interior surface diameter 6 to be increased by an
amount in a range of from 50% to 600% beyond the original
dimension. In a further embodiment, the material utilized for a
collar grip permits the interior surface diameter 6 to be stretched
by an amount in a range of from 100% to 500% beyond the original
dimension. This provides the advantage of having a single collar
grip able to accommodate virtually all commercial or stock camera
lenses currently on the market.
In one embodiment, a collar grip has an unstretched interior
diameter 6 in a range of from 1.0 inch (25.4 mm) to 5.0 inches (127
mm). In a further embodiment, a collar grip has an unstretched
interior diameter in a range of from 2.0 inches (50.8 mm) to 4.0
inches (101.6 mm). In a further, the unstretched interior diameter
of a collar grip is 3.0 inches (76.9 mm) or approximately 3 inches.
In a specific embodiment, shown for example in FIG. 8, an
unstretched interior diameter of a collar grip is approximately
3.03 inches or 76.93 mm.
In an embodiment, the interior diameter of a collar grip is
substantially consistent from the first edge 12 to the second edge
14. Thus, the collar grip is not tapered or narrowed towards either
edge. This allows it to be placed on a lens, such as a focusing
ring, from either edge. It also allows the collar grip to be
customized, discussed below, from either edge. The flexibility and
elasticity of the material utilized for a collar grip will allow it
to conform to the shape of a lens ring, even if the ring is
tapered.
In addition to providing increased grasping and precision
capabilities, a collar grip can have a material thickness 8, as
depicted in FIGS. 1, 3, 6, and 9 as the distance between the
exterior surface 2 and the interior surface 5. When a collar grip
is installed over or around a stock collar, this thickness of the
collar grip material can increase the distance between exterior
surface, or where the collar grip is grasped by a user, and the
center of the camera lens. This increased distance results in a
larger amount of movement, or more degrees of rotation, to be
required in order to generate the same change in the camera lens'
focus and zoom as provided by the stock collar. In other words, a
collar grip allows for greater rotational distance to achieve the
same effect as the stock collar, allowing for smaller or
incremental changes in the lens. It increases the error factor of
the lens. This increased rotational distance (i.e., arc-distance)
or degrees of rotation allows for more precise control over the
focus and zoom of a camera lens. Thus, while the lens achieves the
same adjustment in terms of distance turned by the stock collar,
the use of a collar grip of embodiments of the subject invention
would yield a lower change in terms of degrees of rotation as
compared to using just the stock collar.
The thickness 8 of a collar grip 10 can be variable and depend upon
a variety of factors known to those with skill in the art. The
thickness of a collar grip can dictate the increased diameter that
it affords to a stock collar when installed thereon. Likewise, the
diameter of the stock collar around which a collar grip is placed
can affect the resulting stretched thickness 9 of the collar grip.
FIG. 7 shows the collar grip of FIG. 6 in a stretched
configuration, showing the reduced thickness of the collar grip due
to stretching. Smaller diameter stock collars may result in a
thicker collar grip than a stock collar of larger diameter, with
the same collar grip installed thereon. Conversely, a collar grip
of greater thickness 8 can have a greater stretched thickness 9 on
a larger diameter stock collar.
In one embodiment, the unstretched thickness 8 of a collar grip can
be in a range of from 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) to 0.5 inch (12.7 mm). In
a further embodiment, the unstretched thickness of a collar grip
can be in a range of from 0.30 inch (7.6 mm) to 0.4 inch (10.2 mm).
In a specific embodiment, the unstretched thickness of a collar
grip is approximately 0.32 inch (8.18 mm).
A collar grip, as described above, can improve grasp of a stock
collar and increase the precision with which a lens can be
manipulated for focusing, zooming, or aperture control. The
materials utilized can have sufficient pliability to allow the
exterior surface 2 to conform to a user's fingers when grasped and
can have sufficient stiction or cohesion to ensure a reliable grasp
even with a light touch. Likewise, the interior surface 5 can
conform to the configuration and any surface enhancing features,
such as scoring or hatching, on a stock collar. The addition of
extended surface features 20 on either or both the exterior surface
and the interior surface of a collar grip can enhance cohesion and
provide further surface area for increasing stiction. An extended
surface feature can be any type of protrusion or raised material or
object above the exterior surface or interior surface. The extended
surface features can all be the same or have different sizes or
shapes. An extended surface feature can be the same or a different
material than that of the collar grip. The extended surface
features can be arranged randomly, staggered, regularly, in a
discernable pattern, or some combination thereof.
In one embodiment, the exterior surface 2 has extended surface
features 20. FIGS. 2, 4, and 8 illustrate non-limiting examples of
extended surface features arranged in regular rows. In another
embodiment, there are extended surface features 20 arranged around
the interior surface 5 of the collar grip. In one embodiment, the
extended surface features on the exterior surface are offset from
or are otherwise not aligned with the extended surface features on
the interior surface, an example of which is shown in FIGS. 1, 5,
and 9. This can be advantageous when the collar grip is stretched,
as shown in FIG. 7, as it can inhibit weak zones or areas where the
material becomes thinner than other areas when stretched, which can
potentially cause a break or tear in the collar grip. By offsetting
the extended surface features on each surface, the thickness 8 of
the material of the collar grip can maintain uniformity, or at
least partial uniformity, when the collar grip is stretched.
In one embodiment, the interior surface 5 has a plurality of
regularly-arranged extended surface features 20. In one embodiment,
the regularly-arranged extended surface features are configured as
elongated ribs arranged between and transverse 30 to the first edge
12 and the second edge 14 of the collar grip 10, as illustrated in
FIG. 5. In an alternative embodiment, the elongated ribs are
arranged slanted or angled on the interior surface relative to the
edges, one example of which is shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. This gives
the ribs a "rifled" configuration that can be more effective at
remaining in place on a lens barrel, depending upon the type of
cross-hatching or other gripping features on the lens ring surface.
With this embodiment, the ribs are angled across the interior
surface between the edges, such that a rib is not transverse to
either edge. In one embodiment, the ribs are angled or slanted on
the interior surface between approximately 40.degree. and
approximately 60.degree. relative to an edge. In a more particular
embodiment, the ribs are angled between approximately 45.degree.
and 55.degree., relative to an edge.
The ribs can be arranged around all or most of the interior surface
5 of the collar grip, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 3, 5, and 6.
In a further embodiment, the ribs can have faces 21 that extend to
and are aligned with or are coplanar with at least one of the first
edge 12 and the second edge 14 of the collar grip 10, which is
shown, by way of example, in FIGS. 3 and 5.
Extended surface features 20, when present on the interior surface
5, are capable of securing the collar grip to a lens ring and
ensuring minimal shifting or movement of the collar grip. Thus, the
extended surface features can have dimensions that are suited to
provide a sufficient amount of stiction or cohesion with a ring,
such as a focusing ring, or any other part of a camera lens or lens
barrel on which a collar grip is placed, without allowing the
collar grip to shift, slip, rock, or otherwise move unnecessarily
when used to manipulate a lens ring or if used to brace a lens or
lens barrel. Many factors can dictate the dimensions of the
extended surface features on a collar grip; for example, the type
of material utilized, the shore rating of the material utilized,
other dimensions of the collar grip, as well as other factors known
to those with skill in the art.
In one embodiment, an extended surface feature 20 on the interior
surface 5, such as ribs, rise between 0.2 mm (or approximately 0.2
mm) and 0.7 mm (or approximately 0.7 mm) above the interior surface
5. In a further embodiment, an extended surface feature rises
between 0.4 mm (or approximately 0.4 mm) and 0.6 mm (or
approximately 0.6 mm) above the interior surface. In a specific
embodiment, shown for example, in FIG. 9, an extended surface
feature rises approximately 0.58 mm above the interior surface.
Extended surfaces features on the interior surface 5 can also be
spaced apart or have channels 27 therebetween, in order to maximize
the amount of surface area available for contact, so as to create
sufficient stiction. When a collar grip 10 is stretched, the
extended surface features 20 on the interior surface and the
channels can also stretch. An example of this is shown in FIG. 7,
which shows a collar grip in an expanded state where it can be seen
that the extended surface features on the interior surface and
channels in between them are stretched and expanded when the collar
grip is stretched and expanded. This can be advantageous when the
collar grip is placed around a lens ring because when the collar
grip is released around a lens ring and begins to retract, the
material of the band can allow the surface of the collar grip and
the extended surface features to settle around, enmesh with, or
otherwise become interdigitated with surfaces of the lens ring.
Thus, one or more sides 22 of the extended surface features, as
well as the innermost faces 24 and the interior surface 5 in the
channels 27 between the extended surface features, can all be
engaged to hold the collar grip in place. If there are hatching,
scoring, finger nobs, or other features on the stock collar, the
ability of the collar grip 10 and all surfaces on the extended
surface features to stretch or otherwise expand in surface area
allows them to integrate with the stock collar and any features
thereon when the collar grip retracts. This can further inhibit the
collar grip from moving out of position once placed on a lens or
around a stock collar or lens.
The distance by which the extended surface features on the interior
surface are spaced apart, or the width 28 of the channels 27, as
measured from where the extended surface features rise from the
interior surface 5, can depend upon a variety of factors including,
but not limited to, the type of material utilized for the collar
grip, the dimensions of the collar grip, the diameter of the
intended lens ring on which it is to be used, the shore rating of
the material of the collar grip, and other factors known to those
with skill in the art. In one embodiment, the channels 27 have a
width 28 of between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm. In further embodiment,
channels have a width of between 0.7 mm and 1.5 mm. In a particular
embodiment, channels have a width of about 1 mm.
In addition to being spaced apart by channels 27, one or more sides
22 of an extended surface feature on the interior surface 5 can be
formed with a draft 26 or be angled in such a way that directs one
or more sides of an extended surface feature 20 away from one or
more sides or the innermost face of an adjacent extended surface
feature. This can facilitate stretching of the extended surface
features on the interior surface and can also ensure that the
extended surface features don't rub against or abut each other,
particularly their innermost faces 24. In one embodiment, one or
more sides 22 of an extended surface feature have a draft of
between 0.2.degree. and 0.9.degree.. In a more particular
embodiment, an extended surface feature has one or more sides with
a draft of between 0.5.degree. and 0.8.degree.. In a specific
embodiment, shown by way of example in FIG. 9, an extended surface
feature has at least one side with a draft of 0.76.degree..
A collar grip 10 can also have extended surface features 20 on the
exterior surface 2, either alone or in addition to extended surface
features on the interior surface 5. In one embodiment, the exterior
surface 2 has a plurality of regularly-arranged extended surface
features 20. In a further embodiment, the regularly-arranged
extended surface features are configured as cogs arranged between
the first edge 12 and the second edge 14 of a collar grip 10. The
regularly-arranged cogs can be transversely aligned 30 relative to
the first edge 12 and the second edge 14, examples of which are
shown in FIGS. 4 and 8. Further, two or more cogs can be arranged
side by side and transversely aligned relative to the first edge 12
and/or the second edge 14. Stated otherwise, cogs can be arranged
in rows, where the rows of cogs are transversely aligned 30 to at
least one of the first edge 12 and the second edge 14. Thus, an
entire row of cogs is not required to, but can, extend from the
first edge to the second edge and be transverse to either or both
edges. One non-limiting example of this is shown in FIGS. 3 and 5,
which show cogs having at least two planar sides 22 and an outward
face 26, such that one planar side is next to a planar side of one
or more adjacent cogs and the two or more aligned cogs are in rows
that extend from the first edge 12 and the second edge 14 and are
transversely aligned 30 with both edges, as illustrated in FIG.
3.
Extended surface features, such as cogs, can also be arranged
around all or most of the exterior surface 2 of a collar grip, as
shown, for example, in FIGS. 1, 6, and 9. FIGS. 2, 3, and 8
illustrate non-limiting alternative examples of collar grips 10
having cogs arranged around most of the exterior surface and where
at least a portion of the exterior surface is reserved or used for
a different type of cog or extended surface feature, which in this
example, is lettering. In a still further embodiment, one or more
cogs can be placed at or near to the first edge 12 or to the second
edge 14 of the collar grip 10. In one embodiment, an extended
surface feature 20 has at least one face 21 that is adjacent to or
near an edge of the collar grip and where at least a portion of the
face is beveled, so that it tilts or angles away from the edge 12
or 14 of the collar grip and directs towards the opposite edge.
FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate examples of this where cogs have a face 22
arranged at or near to one of the first edge 12 or the second edge
14 of the collar grip and that face has a draft that causes the
face to lean away from the edge. In an embodiment, the edge can be,
or can appear to be, beveled.
Extended surface features 20, when present on the exterior surface
5, should be capable of securing the collar grip to a lens ring and
ensure minimal shifting or movement of the collar grip. Thus, the
extended surface features should have dimensions suited for the
purpose of maximizing stiction or cohesion with the user's fingers
or hand and inhibit the band from shifting, slipping, rocking, or
otherwise moving unnecessarily when manipulated. Many factors can
dictate the dimensions of extended surface features on the exterior
surface. For example, the type of material utilized, the shore
rating of the material utilized, other dimensions of the collar
grip, and other factors known to those with skill in the art.
In one embodiment, an extended surface feature on the exterior
surface rises from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm above the exterior surface 2.
In a further embodiment, an extended surface feature rises from 0.7
mm to 1.2 mm above the interior surface. In a specific embodiment,
shown, for example, in FIG. 9, an extended surface feature rises
1.05 mm above the interior surface.
Extended surfaces features can also be spaced apart by channels 27
in order to maximize the amount of surface area available for
contact and to create sufficient stiction. When a collar grip 10 is
stretched, the extended surface features 20 and channels on the
exterior surface can also stretch. An example of this is shown in
FIG. 7, which shows a collar grip in an expanded state and where it
can be seen that the extended surface features and channels on the
exterior surface are stretched and expanded when the collar grip is
stretched and expanded. When the extended surface features are
spaced apart, the amount of surface area available for contact,
when the collar grip is stretched, can be increased. This can be
advantageous when the collar grip is placed around a focusing, zoom
or other lens ring because it can increase the amount of surface
area contacted by the user and the irregularities caused by the
extended surface features provide increased gripping capability and
interdigitation with the fingers. Thus, the sides 22 of the
extended surface features, as well as the outward faces 26 and the
exterior surface 2 in the channels between the extended surface
features can all be engaged by the user's fingers and prevent or
inhibit slipping or sliding, even when wet.
The distance by which the extended surface features are spaced
apart, as measured from where the extended surface features rise
from the exterior surface, can depend upon a variety of factors
including, but not limited to, the type of material utilized for
the collar grip, the dimensions of the collar grip, the diameter of
the intended ring on which it is to be used, the shore rating of
the material of the collar grip, and other factors known to those
with skill in the art.
In one embodiment, the extended surface features 20 on the exterior
surface 2 have channels 27 between them spaced so as to permit
finger contact with the sides 22 and outward faces 26 of the
extended surface features. It can also be beneficial if the
channels are spaced so that the sides 22 and outward faces 26 of
the extended surface features are inhibited from abutting,
overlapping, or otherwise touching when the collar grip is
stretched and placed around a ring. In one embodiment, channels 27
have a width 28 in a range of from 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm. In further
embodiment, channels have a width in a range of from 1.5 mm and 1.7
mm. In a particular embodiment, channels have a width of 1.74 mm. A
specific embodiment of the subject invention has 72 channels
arranged around the periphery of a collar grip.
To further increase finger contact with the collar grip 10, one or
more sides 22 of an extended surface feature can be formed with a
draft or at an angle that directs that side away from the side or
innermost face of an adjacent extended surface feature. In one
embodiment, one or more sides 22 of an extended surface feature
have a draft of from 2.degree. to 6.degree.. In a further
embodiment, an extended surface feature has one or more sides with
a draft of from 3.5.degree. to 5.5.degree.. In a further
embodiment, an extended surface feature has one or more sides with
a draft of from 4.degree. to 4.5.degree.. In a specific embodiment,
shown by way of example in FIG. 9, an extended surface feature has
at least one side with a draft of 4.13.degree..
Lens rings, such as focusing lens rings or zoom lens rings, come in
a variety of sizes and dimensions. In particular, they can have
different heights, which is the distance between the edges of the
focusing ring. The height defines the area where the fingers can be
placed to manipulate the lens or lens barrel. As such, in many
embodiments, it can be important that a collar grip have the same
or similar height 16 as the stock collar on which it is placed. A
collar grip that overhangs an edge of the lens ring can affect the
motion of the lens, which affects the focusing and zooming
capabilities or the aperture control. In one embodiment, a collar
grip can have a height that is sufficiently small to fit on all or
most known lens rings. This would allow a collar grip to be easily
transferable between lenses, making it universally, or nearly
universally, usable. If necessary, more than one collar grip can be
placed around a stock collar to cover more area.
Alternatively, a collar grip can be customizable to fit a
particular lens ring. A customized collar grip does not preclude it
from being utilized on more than one ring. Customization allows a
collar grip to be configured for a particular lens (or lens barrel)
or several different lenses (or lens barrels) of similar heights
16. In one embodiment, the material utilized for a collar grip, in
addition to being flexible, pliable, and stretchable, can also be
sliced, cut, torn, ripped, or otherwise modified without adversely
affecting the collar grip and the ability to place it around a lens
ring. This can allow for a universally-sized collar grip or collar
grips designed to work with different size ranges of focusing or
zoom lenses. A collar grip can be modified to fit or work on a
specific lens. In a further embodiment, material can be removed
from one or both of the first edge 12 and the second edge 14 in
order to change or customize the height 16 of the collar grip.
A collar grip can be customized by utilizing a device, such as, for
example, scissors or a cutting blade, to remove unwanted material.
Alternatively, a collar grip can have perforations 40 or rows of
holes strategically placed around the periphery thereof. By using
the perforations or rows of holes as a guide, material can be
pulled or torn away from the collar grip. The perforations 40 or
holes are placed close together so that material can be removed
without leaving an undesirable frayed or irregular edge. This can
provide the advantage of being able to customize in the field or
when a cutting device is not available.
In another embodiment, to facilitate the removal of material from a
collar grip 10, guides or tracks can be present around the
periphery of the collar grip that can be followed when cutting away
material. In certain embodiments, a collar grip, when resting with
one edge against a horizontal surface, appears to have one or more
horizontal tracks encircling the collar grip, which in one
embodiment can be troughs, channels, or cut-outs around all or some
portion of the periphery of a collar grip. FIGS. 2, 4, and 5
illustrate non-limiting examples of these types of horizontal
tracks 80, within the surface of a collar grip and which extend
around the entire periphery. In addition to providing guidance when
cutting or removing material from a collar grip, the horizontal
tracks can allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the
material. An alternative embodiment of horizontal tracks 80 can
extend intermittently or periodically around the collar grip. FIG.
8 shows one example of horizontal tracks that stop where the
lettering begins, and start again further around the collar
grip.
Depending upon the arrangement of any extended surface features 20
that may be on the exterior surface 2, horizontal tracks may be
located between or can appear to go through one or more extended
surface features. FIGS. 2, 4, and 5 illustrate one embodiment of a
collar grip having extended surface features in the form of cogs.
In these embodiments, the cogs are arranged in a uniform linear
fashion so that a horizontal track can run between the cogs.
Alternatively, the horizontal track can appear to transect multiple
cogs as it goes around the collar grip. Horizontal tracks can act
as guidelines for lens owners that would like to customize the size
of the collar grip to their personal lenses or lens barrels. A
cutting device can be used within the horizontal tracks to cut the
material more easily due to the decreased thickness and more
accurately because they can follow the path provided by the
horizontal track.
There can be more than one horizontal track 80 arranged at varying
distances from one or more of the edges of a collar grip. In one
embodiment, shown for example in FIGS. 4 and 5, two horizontal
tracks can be present. The horizontal tracks can each be located
nearer to an edge of the collar grip than they are to each other.
In an alternative embodiment, the two tracks can be evenly or
regularly spaced relative to the edges 12 and 14 of the collar
grip. In another embodiment, shown for example in FIGS. 2, 3, and 8
several horizontal tracks can be arranged on a collar grip. They
can be arranged at varying distances or they can be evenly or
regularly spaced, relative to the edges 12 and 14 of the collar
grip. A user can accurately trim away excess material from one or
both edges to achieve the desired height 16.
The width 17 of a horizontal track 80 is the distance between the
sides 18, as depicted in FIGS. 4 and 8. The width can also vary
depending upon the number of horizontal tracks, their location on
the collar grip, any extended surface features, and other factors
known to those with skill in the art. Further, where more than one
horizontal track is present, they do not have to have the same
width. In one embodiment, the width 17 of a horizontal track is in
a range of from 1.0 mm to 4.0 mm. In a further embodiment, the
width of a horizontal track is in a range of from 1.25 mm to 3.25
mm. In a further embodiment, the width of a horizontal track is in
a range of from 1.5 mm to 3.0 mm. In yet a further embodiment, the
width of a horizontal track is in a range of from 1.5 mm to 2.5
mm.
In one embodiment, a collar grip has five horizontal tracks 80, an
example of which is shown in FIG. 8. Three of the horizontal tracks
can have a larger width than the two other horizontal tracks. The
three larger width horizontal tracks 17A are arranged with two
outermost horizontal tracks being nearest to the first edge 12 and
the second edge 14, respectively, and the third of these horizontal
tracks being generally centered between the first and second edges.
In one embodiment, these three horizontal tracks have the same
thickness. In a particular embodiment, the three larger width
horizontal tracks have a width of 2.5 mm or about 2.5 mm. There can
also be a set of thinner width horizontal tracks 17B, with each one
of the set arranged on either side of a larger width horizontal
track 17A centered on the collar grip. In one embodiment, the
thinner width horizontal tracks each have a width of 1.5 mm or
about 1.5 mm.
The concept of varying the width of horizontal tracks was developed
through an in-depth study of photographers and their habits in the
field when adjusting the zoom and focus of their lenses. It was
found that statistically, photographers grip the focusing ring on a
camera lens barrel more often on the edges and centerline than
other areas of the focusing ring. Widening some tracks (e.g., to
2.5 millimeters) can allow photographers to achieve more texture
and grip with the lens in the most used areas. Typically,
photographers manipulate the lenses of a camera by touch. They are
usually looking through the camera viewfinder while making
adjustments to the lenses, in order to achieve the desired image or
effect. So, they learn to feel for the features and controls on a
lens barrel, without taking their eye away from the viewfinder.
Advantageously, the number of tracks and the width of the tracks 80
on a collar grip 10 can be a tactile aid to a photographer. By
learning the feel of the tracks, they can discern the position of a
lens, location of controls on a lens, the amount of lens extension,
and other characteristics of a lens by the location of the
tracks.
In a particular embodiment, shown, for example, in FIGS. 11, 12,
and 13, there can be three tracks 80 extending around the periphery
of a collar grip 10. The two outermost tracks can have a width 17
that is less than the width of the center track, as shown in FIG.
12. This difference in widths can be tactile indicator. The tracks
can also be spaced around the periphery, where the distance between
the tracks is less than the distance from an edge 12 or 14 to an
outermost track, which is shown, for example, in FIG. 12. This
difference in distance between the tracks and the tracks and the
edge of the collar grip can also be a tactile indicator.
In a specific embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, the outer
tracks 81 closest to the collar grip edges 12 and 14 are
approximately 0.06'' in width and the center track 82 is
approximately 0.07'' in width. In a further specific embodiment,
the outer tracks 81 are approximately 0.36'' from the respective
edges 12 and 14 of the collar grip, as measured from the edge of
the collar grip to the outermost sidewall 19 of the track. In yet a
further specific embodiment, the distance between each outer track
81 and the center track 82 is approximately 0.33''. Thus, in this
specific embodiment, the three tracks are evenly spaced from each
other and are slightly closer to the center of the collar grip.
This configuration of different size horizontal tracks and their
placement on the collar grip distanced slightly from the edges can
be used as a tactile indicator of where a lens ring is located
relative to the body of the camera.
The accuracy with which a camera lens can be zoomed and focused is
dependent upon the skill of the photographer and the sensitivity of
the equipment, particularly the lens of the camera. The focusing
and zoom rings on most camera lenses, as well as the aperture
control ring, often lack adequate stiction or traction to allow a
photographer to gain a secure grip. Collar grips of embodiments of
the subject invention can be easily placed around a ring to provide
the stiction and grip that most photographers require for accurate
manipulation of a lens. Collar grips of embodiments of the subject
invention also provide other advantages such as increasing the
diameter to the focusing ring, customization, and protection for
the lens.
It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described
herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various
modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to
persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit
and purview of this application.
All patents, patent applications, provisional applications, and
publications referred to or cited herein (including those in the
"References" section) are incorporated by reference in their
entirety, including all figures and tables, to the extent they are
not inconsistent with the explicit teachings of this
specification.
* * * * *